Ella Clark has been in love with Alex Grayson forever. She’s tired of being invisible—or worse, being treated like his kid sister. If she can just get him to drop his iron-fisted control for two seconds, she’ll prove she knows exactly how to blow his mind.

Alex has been fighting his attraction to Ella since her should-have-been-innocent sweet sixteen kiss burned down his world. He's damaged, and there's no way he'll ever drag her into his screwed up life. Until she offers him something he's always craved—steamy, no-strings sex inside his exclusive BDSM club. Where she'll be safe from the darkness that haunts him.

Except there's nothing safe about being with Ella, and the more she gives, the harder it is to let her go. If he stays, he risks everything, but how can he walk away from the only woman he's ever needed?

The Grayson Brothers are diamonds in the rough. Each has their own baggage to work through but their capacity to love is endless. I have had the pleasure to read the first two books in Christina Phillips intensely passionate and dramatic Grayson series. Every book appeals to the heart. I received an ARC of Hold Me Until Forever in exchange for an honest review. Ella and Alex are like night and day. Ella has experienced upsets within her life but has held tight to two constants. Her beloved furry friends (cats) and her unrequited love for Alex Grayson. Alex has seen his share of dark days. Life experience has taught him to protect the people you love and keep them close. When Ella decides to put distance between herself and Alex that is when he starts to realize how important an impact she has made in his life. Hold Me Until Forever was the most heartbreaking of the series for me but that is what made it a story that proved hard to forget.

Cooper Grayson is supposed to hole up in a mountain cabin and protect his best friend's little sister from the paparazzi for a week. That's it. But Paris O'Connell isn't a kid anymore, and it's hard to remember this is strictly business when she bats her big green eyes at him...then crashes through all his carefully placed boundaries.

Paris loves a challenge. And gorgeous Cooper Grayson is the most dangerous challenge she's faced yet. He ignores the sizzling attraction that keeps her awake at nights, and he doesn't care about her fame or her contacts, only seeing her. When they finally kiss, Cooper leaves her bare. Exposed. His for the taking. And take he does...

For one incredibly hot week, Cooper fulfils her every fantasy. But when the real world crashes in, so does reality. And reality tells them there's no way a Hollywood star and a bad boy from the wrong side of town could ever have a future together...

It's been done before. Many times. Even so I never get tired of friends to lover romances. If done right they can be the most sweet, romantic and revealing reads. Paris' career has given her everything she wants. In spite of all she has there is still an emptiness in her life. Cooper is surprised to see his best friend's sister all grown up. But knows her high profile career and his friendship with her brother makes her off limits. These two people had steam coming out of their ears when together.I have to be honest I think there was some subtle matchmaking afoot. Hold Me Until Morning by Christina Phillips is a seductive story that was told in the right way, by the right person. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Scarlett Ashford needs a date for her father's wedding. Only she doesn't just need a guy in a suit—she needs a bodyguard. The only problem is that Jackson Grayson is big and gorgeous and way too sexy. So much so that Scarlett's tempted to let this hot bad boy ruin her oh-so-good reputation...

Jackson doesn't do relationships and he certainly doesn't sleep with clients. Yet he can't fight their inconvenient attraction, or how badly he wants Scarlett's warm and wicked curves against his body. He wants her. Now. Even if it's just for one night, and even if walking away the next morning isn't as easy as he thought.

Besides, one hot and incredibly intense night between a bad boy and a pampered princess could never turn into something real...could it?

Hold Me Until Midnight by Christina PhillipsMy rating: 5 of 5 starsEntangled is synopsis for steamy entertainment. In a nutshell Hold Me until Midnight fits all that criteria. Alpha male meets an equally take charge female who recruits him as her date/bodyguard for a family wedding. Neither expects that their flirty, tension filled relationship will end up flaming out of control. DUH!!!. Very sensual, highly entertaining but not very original. All the ingredients for a great book. Received an ARC for an honest review.

I used to think I could be a hero, but one deadly night destroyed that delusion. So I’ve come home defeated. My military career, my best friend, my purpose—all of it is lost.

What I find is her.

She’s my best friend’s sister, and she’s everything I shouldn’t want. She’s on a hopeless quest for answers about her brother’s death, but those are secrets that can never come to light. She’s always been a fighter, and she desperately wants the truth.

I desperately want her.

Someone is trying to kill her now, and she won’t let me keep her safe. I have to do it anyway, even if she doesn’t trust me, even if she hates me for it. A man protects what’s precious to him, whether or not he can ever claim her for his own. So she becomes my purpose.

Samantha Chase is an author that has been a regular go to for me in the past year.What I find most appealing about her stories is that she appeals to a basic human need. The characters she creates are searching for the things we all crave: acceptance, hope and love. My familiarity with her writing is what drew me to The Protectors series. Duty Bound is a heartbreaking story. Levi is dealing with so much guilt, pain and upheaval from a traumatizing loss. Harper is suffering through the grief as well having loss her brother. Her search for answers leads her to the one man she believes can supply her with the truth. What ensues is a relationship that neither expected and secrets that could destroy the fragility of it all. Duty Bound is a little bit of a new direction for me in that it is a romantic suspense and although I have read a few, they were not written by Ms. Chase. This story is all that a reader could hope for in a good book.

My life was just like any other girl’s until the Maxwell corporate empire ruined my family and stole my future. I’d given up hoping to see justice done, but then the way to right this wrong was dropped in my lap. My job with an event planner can get me into the home of one of Maxwell’s business partners. I can find evidence of what they did to my father. I can make sure they pay.

I wasn’t expecting Sebastian.

Sebastian has been hired for security, but he is also the son of the man I despise. I should hate Sebastian purely on principle. I shouldn’t care that he’s sweet and funny and sexy as hell. He’ll always be a Maxwell, and that means he’s my enemy.

I can’t help but want him anyway.

He seems to want me too, but only for a good time. He’s the son of privilege, and he’ll never be serious about me. He’ll also never betray his family. If he finds out what I’m really doing here, he’ll turn on me in an instant. He’ll keep me from finding justice.

How far will you go to avenge someone you love? In Honor Bound Ali risks losing everything, including her heart. With this novel I found every revelation to be better than the one before. Ali may be in over her head but the sacrifices that she makes lead her to not only answers but also love. Ali and Sebastian's story is one about learning to trust your instincts, risk your heart and all that you hold dear. This story was just as good as Duty Bound but had more of a edge of your seat feel to it.

AWW!! Have a huge place in my heart for any story has a tough as nails male dealing with young children. The main reason is because that scenario is not often used in romance. By placing Declan in a situation that was foreign to him, the author showed his vulnerabilities and insecurities. It also taught him that it was okay to experience emotion and make personal connections. I loved this story.

Halfway through her first year on the job, Melissa Montclair decides the best part of teaching is winter break.

And the best part of break is the Perfect Ten she meets in a bar on New Year’s Eve. Why not celebrate a semester under her belt with a Perfect Ten in her pants? The one night affair is all she hoped for, until she walks into school a week later and sees Mr. Ten is Student Twenty-nine on her roll call.

She should be mortified—and she is—but that doesn’t stop her from banging him again. And again.

And again.

So much for job security.

Posing as an exchange student at Hamilton High is finally the assignment Officer Spence Vega has been hoping for. Now he has a shot at getting to the bottom of the town’s recent molly epidemic. There’s only a couple of problems: first, history is taught by the curvy bombshell he banged on New Year’s. Second, his growing suspicion is that she’s the dealer he’s looking for.

The job was supposed to be an easy in-and-out, not the teacher.

If only they could stop getting under the covers, staying undercover would be so much easier.

I place a kiss on her neck and mutter against her smooth, honey-mint skin, "Keep kissing me like this and I can't promise we'll make it back to your place."

She gasps slightly and it's the sexiest thing I’ve ever heard. At this rate, I’d fucking carry her the entire way to her apartment if it meant we didn't have to waste a valuable hour waiting for a cab. And then the little minx starts grinding against me. I can feel her damp warmth through my jeans.

Jesus take the wheel. I might marry this girl.

"Are you asking for a public fucking, Mel? Because it certainly feels like it." I slip my hands under her short dress. A firm ass waits for me. I knew she worked out. I’m such a good judge of character.

Character. Haha.

"God, you really are beautiful," I tell her, and I totally mean that. That’s the key to the charm I learned from my dad—mean what you say. Sincerity is more important than any fancy words. And by fancy words, I mean I mostly only keep thinking of filthy ones to say to her, so.

"I think we're going to have to walk." She leans forward and gently bites my neck. "Because I don't know how much longer I can wait."

Fucking jackpot. "Where do you live?"

"Seven blocks that way." She points in the direction of the Plaza, but I’m paying exactly zero attention to her muttered directions. I’m way too busy enjoying the way her body moves against me in time to the music coming from the bar. "Do you mind walking?"

"Do I mind?" I laugh. More like she read my mind. I pick her up and toss her over my shoulder. (Another note for all my brothers out there—girls love this move. Proves you’re super strong. Helps to play baseball. If you’re any good, hit me up. We’re down a shortstop on my team.)

Her high-heeled feet kick in delight and it's the cutest thing ever. Like puppies and kittens but—you know what, no. Puppies and kittens are a terrible analogy. Anyway, slipping into that particular bar to hide was probably the best thing I could have done all night. "Just tell me where to go."

"The other way! Other way!" Melissa squeals as I spin her in circles. "Yes, this way. Seven blocks. High-ho, Silver!"

She thinks she's hilarious and laughs at her own joke. It makes me laugh, too. Then I realize her ass is probably on display to the whole cab line. As much as I deserve high fives from everyone who sees who I’m leaving with, I’m selfish. That ass is mine for the night, so no one gets to look but me.

I set her down.

I haven’t been back to a girl's place in… well in for-fucking-ever, and the idea excites me. No one can come back to my place, not right now, and I usually avoid going home with strangers, no matter how hot. You just never know, man. Maybe it's the beer, maybe it's the quick getaway that led me to the bar, maybe it's how she kisses like she’s already in bed, but this is so happening.

God, I miss one-night stands.

There is no time for attachment in my life. Not even with this amazing girl who giggles at my jokes and squeals when I pretend to turn down a dark alleyway, just to hear her laugh. There are a lot of alleys in Westport. I get a lot of laughs. She isn’t making like she wants a boyfriend either, which means tonight is perfect.

After all, New Year's Eve is a time for new beginnings. And god knows I could use a fresh start. An evening with Melissa would be the perfect way to kiss 2015 good-bye. And I would make that good-bye scream my name so many times...

"Are you sure we can't just stop here?" I spin her around and kiss her again. Fuck, that mouth of hers. Hey, there’s an idea. "Because you are making me fucking crazy. I can’t look at you with clothes on anymore."

She narrows her eyes. Those bedroom eyes. Fuck. They were bright green, so opposite of my brown, and framed by dark eyelashes. Dark hair, bright eyes, a killer smile. I’m only half-joking. I’d take her right here on the street if it wasn't illegal. That doesn’t always stop me, but it would be a real mood-killer to deal with legal ramifications right about now.

"Naughty boy." She purrs. "If you keep propositioning me like this, I don't know that I can say no. However, I can't go to jail because I'm..."

"A prostitute? A drug dealer?" Again with the half-jokes.

"Sure." She smiles brightly and kisses me with wandering hands. I’m starting to rethink my seconds-ago decision not to bang her in the middle of 42nd St.

"The elevator is close enough." I kiss her again, her sweet taste basically all I’m living for right now, and throw her back over my shoulder. Did I mention chicks love this move?

"Don't let me flash anyone!" She squeals.

"I can’t make any promises," I say. And I can’t, but I guarantee I’m moving too quick for anyone to get a good view. We are so close to her place. I jog across the street and through the small lobby. The elevator is small and rickety, and the bumps and jolts serve two-fold as we continue making out. Her moans drive me insane. All this just from kissing? We’re gonna get a noise complaint for sure once I show her all my moves.

"Okay," she breathes as the elevator opens to her floor. She smooths her hair and digs through her purse for her keys. "I was not planning on bringing anyone back, so you are not allowed to judge me by my lack of cleanliness." Girls, man. I’ve never seen a “messy” girl’s room that could hold a candle to Zach’s.

"I haven't seen my floor in weeks," I reassure her as she pulls me back towards to the door. She unlocks it somehow, and we all but fall in, locked again in heated kisses.

We kiss from the door to the bedroom, bumping into furniture and walls, giggling and shedding our clothing. By the time we reach her bed (perfectly made, by the way) I’m in nothing but my boxer-briefs and she's in a lacy pair of boy shorts.

God, I love boy shorts.

"It's like you were made just for me." I didn’t necessarily mean for her to hear that. It’s true, though, as I’m prowling around her, she’s literally everything I’ve ever jacked o—dreamed of, I mean. Yeah, that.

Before we disappear between her sheets, I want to imprint into my memory every fucking perfect inch. Every dip, every curve, every smooth line. I’m going to taste every inch, but my eyes are hungry, too. Sex is like eating a gourmet meal, as much to be done with your eyes as with your stomach, or, in this case, my cock.

"Like what you see?" She asks. Oh, do I. It’s better than Lidia’s pasta trio, and nothing is better than Lidia’s pasta trio.

"You have no idea," I let my voice drop to a low rumble. "No fucking idea." Mostly because I’m not sure how to explain that I just mentally compared her to very sexy noodles.

"Show me."

Now that I can do.

Kayti McGee is a former Kansas Citian who now follows the Royals from Colorado. Besides writing, her hobbies include travel, cooking, and all thing Whovian. She also writes as the latter half of Laurelin McGee. Like her co-author Laurelin Paige, she joined Mensa for no other reason than to make her bio more interesting.

Nathaniel Sherringham has returned to Hawcombe Prior a changed man. Gone is the reckless rake who went out on a limb to propose to Diana Makepiece three years ago. Now Nate’s mysterious new wealth has the town’s rumor mill spinning. To stir things up (and get Diana’s attention), Nate boldly announces his plans to marry “any suitable girl” under the age of 25.

Diana, now 27 and still single, is acutely aware of Nate’s return. When her mother suggests a trip to visit a cousin in Bath, Diana leaps at the chance to escape the heartbreak and regret she can’t help but feel in Nate’s presence…and avoid his irritating charade to find a bride.

But for Nate, Diana has always been the one. He might just have to follow her to Bath and once again lay his heart on the line to win her attention—and her heart.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jayne Fresina sprouted up in England. Entertained by her father’s colorful tales of growing up in the countryside, and surrounded by opinionated sisters, she’s always had inspiration for her beleaguered heroes and unstoppable heroines. She lives in upstate New York. Learn more about the author at www.jaynefresinaromanceauthor.blogspot.com.

How to Rescue a Rake, the third in Jayne Fresina’s Austen-inspired Book Club Belles series, comes out this January! For all of you Jane Austen fans, this fun new release is based on Persuasion and it’s a book you don’t want to miss. To celebrate this latest release, the heroine is here to give our readers a tip on how to rescue their own rake and to share an excerpt with us.

Tips for Capturing a Rake's Attention: By Diana Makepiece (Or How to Stay Calm and Capture a Rake)

A tongue-in-cheek guide by one old maid, who has lost her bloom, has let her last chance for happiness pass her by and is now, at twenty-seven, half way to death (according to the parson's wife)... and not at all bitter about it, thank you very much.

Advise him not to flirt with you. He won't pay attention, of course. When was the last time a man listened to reason?

_________________________________________

EXCERPT

“I sent you a message the morning I left, Diana,” he said. “I fired it myself through your bedchamber window with a sling.”

“You did what?”

He ran a hand over his face, flattening rain-drenched spears of hair to his brow. “I climbed that damnable oak behind your mother’s cottage. I didn’t want to leave without giving us another chance.”

She tried to think, but her mind wouldn’t cooperate. Don’t believe him, Diana. This is another of his practical jokes, no doubt. Any moment now he will burst his seams with laughter.

Diana sniffed. “What did this supposed note say?”

He frowned.

“And don’t bother making something up, Captain, for I will know you’re fibbing. It comes naturally to you and always did. But I never fell for it, did I?”

The frown broke with exasperation and then reformed with scorn. “Oh, you know me. It was childish nonsense. Just what you would expect. Good thing you never read it.”

“Don’t tell me then,” she grumbled into her handkerchief. “It hardly matters now anyway. The years have passed, and we are both too old for climbing trees.”

He lifted her gloved fingers and pressed his lips against her knuckles.

“Captain?” she demanded.

He met her frown with a narrow-eyed, somewhat menacing appraisal. “Your opinion of me might improve.”

“Well, it could hardly get any worse.”

Nathaniel’s hand tightened around hers and tugged her closer. “I am not all bad. We may become friends.”

Skeptical, Diana tried to retrieve her hand, but his grip was too strong. “I wouldn’t hope too hard, Captain.” She admired his spirit; she envied his lively manners and his fearlessness. But to feel more for such a capricious man would be a mistake. “I think you should—” A dark, devious twinkle sizzled in his blue eyes and made her draw an anxious breath. “Do not think of it!”

He blinked, but the wicked sparkle remained. “Do not think of what?”

“That. It is not proper!”

“I’m afraid not. It is, however, necessary.”

“Captain Sherringham, if you dare—”

The words were stolen away as his mouth lowered to hers, claimed her lips. She’d said the wrong thing, of course. In his case, saying “if you dare” was like waving a red rag at a bull.

Diana was almost lifted off her feet, left to hover on her toes as he took his kiss. His tongue touched hers and stroked it gently. A raindrop that fell from his eyelashes to her cheek was warm and soft, tickling her skin as it trickled down the curve like a tear and finally gathered on the ridge of her jaw. Until the tip of his tongue followed it and then licked it away.

She was stunned speechless.

“If you don’t believe me about the note,” he whispered, his lips warm against her ear, “ask Jamie Bridges. It was his sling I used.”

Every inch of his hard body was pressed against her, and in her wet clothes she had little defense. He must feel her heartbeat. She might as well be naked. The wicked thought flashed through her mind as if he had put it there with his kiss.

“Ask him,” he repeated. “Unless you’re afraid.” A flare of white teeth showed as he smiled. Oh, that lethal charm. He would never lose it. “The world might tip upside down if I was proven honest for once.”

Nathaniel’s eyes shone down at her and she was caught up in their brilliance, like a fly trapped in a spider’s web.

“I once fell out of a tree for you,” he whispered, sounding bewildered.

“That would explain these bouts of madness,” she reasoned.

_________________________________________________

Enter for a chance to win Complete Set of the Book Club Belles Series.

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

History teacher Madison Keibler is aloof, uptight, prim and proper—and Toby Moreland’s unlikely obsession. He doesn’t understand why the newest staff member at their private high school intrigues him, he only knows he has a burning need to loosen her severe bun, strip her of those dowdy schoolmarm clothes and dirty her up a bit. As the shy, naïve Mad becomes his own personal bad girl, she quickly goes from the woman he can’t stop touching, to the woman he can’t live without.

A sheltered only child raised by cold, scholarly parents, Madison’s been a student most of her life. Now Toby’s giving her the education she never knew she was missing. And not just sex, though his expertise in that area could fill volumes. He’s given her dozens of new experiences, from the joys of a simple walk on the beach at sunset, to the excitement of live sports, to what it’s like to be part of a big, boisterous, loving family. For the first time in her life, she’s living in the moment and loving every second.

But the ultimate experience for both may be sacrifice, after a single careless second threatens to destroy their new, crazy, unexpected mad love.

Madison and Toby were witty, adorable and a match made in heaven. Toby's outgoing personality and physically active lifestyle is a direct contrast to Madison's introverted personality. Something about her aloofness calls out to Toby and leads him on a quest to break through Madison's protective shield. Ms. Cahill in a short period of time has caught my attention with her uplifting stories and lovable characters. I received an ARC of Mad Love in exchange for an honest review. What captured my heart within this story is that each needed to open up emotionally and mentally in order to experience the rewards falling in love could bring.

It's not just the motion of the ocean, ladies. It's definitely the SIZE of the boat too.

And I've got both firing on all cylinders. In fact, I have ALL the right assets. Looks, brains, my own money, and a big cock.

You might think I'm an asshole. I sound like one, don’t I? I'm hot as sin, rich as heaven, smart as hell and hung like a horse.

Guess what? You haven't heard my story before. Sure, I might be a playboy, like the NY gossip rags call me. But I’m the playboy who’s actually a great guy. Which makes me one of a kind.

The only trouble is, my dad needs me to cool it for a bit. With conservative investors in town wanting to buy his flagship Fifth Avenue jewelry store, he needs me not only to zip it up, but to look the part of the committed guy. Fine. I can do this for Dad. After all, I’ve got him to thank for the family jewels. So I ask my best friend and business partner to be my fiancée for the next week. Charlotte’s up for it. She has her own reasons for saying yes to wearing this big rock.

And pretty soon all this playing pretend in public leads to no pretending whatsoever in the bedroom, because she just can’t fake the kind of toe-curling, window-shattering orgasmic cries she makes as I take her to new heights between the sheets.

But I can’t seem to fake that I might be feeling something real for her.

What the fuck have I gotten myself into with this…big rock?

BIG ROCK is a standalone, dirty romance novel written from the guy’s POV by NYT Bestselling author Lauren Blakely…

Can a leopard change it's spots? Lauren Blakely did a fine job of proving in the right circumstances anything is possible. Spencer was a douche. His cavalier attitude toward the opposite sex almost had me writing him off as completely hopeless. Yet he did have some redeeming qualities. He cared deeply about his family and when he loved he did so with his whole heart. This was evident from how he was with his best friend Charlotte. He was protective, caring and anow all around good guy. The way he stepped in to help when needed and how he looked after her was irresistible. It was so obvious that Charlotte and Spencer were soul mates. All they needed was a nudge in the right direction. I received an ARC of Hard Rock in exchange for an honest review. A reward that is full of surprises.

If you love the MMA romances of Vi Kreeland and Kendall Ryan, Sidney Halston’s Worth the Fight series will knock your socks off! In Fighting Dirty, a geek-chic cage fighter proves that appearances can be deceiving . . . and oh-so-tempting.

With his preppy clothes and horn-rimmed glasses, Enzo Silva is the last dude anyone expects to find in a mixed martial arts gym. A wealthy Brazilian banker who never had to fight for anything, Enzo’s stuck in the amateur circuit—but he burns to make the pros. Maybe that explains the heat he feels whenever he’s around Jamie Lynn Calhoun. The pint-size, magenta-haired bartender with the Texas drawl is everything he’s not . . . and everything he craves.

Tough as nails and independent to a fault, Jamie Lynn—JL to her friends—works hard to pay her bills and keep life simple. Enzo is doing his best to complicate that. Even though she likes to bust his balls, he’s got some kind of a nerdy-hot vibe that makes JL wonder if she might finally be able to let her guard down. It might do the boy some good to spend some time in her world, where blood, sweat, and victory are as sweet as the first taste of real love.

The difference between living and existing is up to you. That is the central theme of Sidney Halston's latest novel Fighting Dirty. It also is the point that JL (Jamie Lynn) helps Enzo (Lorenzo) to discover. His happiness rests on himself and not trying to please others. Jamie Lynn is a survivor. Her life is the true testament to the saying of making lemonade out of lemons. Becoming her own person and coming to terms with the anger, heartbreak and tragedy have created a woman with thick skin that looks for the bright side but has endured life's darkest moments. Lorenzo has wealth but is not happy and his fortune has become a noose he wears daily. Sidney Halston via her Worth the Fight series has penned stories that are full of beauty, bravery and characters that capture the imagination and heart. I received an ARC of Fighting Dirty in exchange for an honest review.

Tuesday, December 29, 2015

The undercover Russian contract killer has never turned down an assignment that rids the world of scum... until his latest job targets an innocent man. Refusing is not an option, because of Everly Andrews, the sexy southern belle who saved him from dying. She's completely unaware of his double life, but has been marked as next on the kill list should he fail. Only, what The Bratva doesn't know—there’s nothing Roman won’t do to keep Everly safe. Drugged and deposited in a hotel in Prague, Roman must be on guard at all times in order to protect Everly, but the countdown has begun, and it won't stop until his next target, or Everly, is terminated. Can Roman protect Everly until he can eliminate the threat to her life?

When Marquita Valentine decides to change up her repertoire, she goes BIG. With Prime Target there is danger around every corner. Roman unwillingly lures Everly into his world. Now he has to protect her at all costs. I am familiar with Ms. Valentine's contemporary romances they are emotional but light fair as opposed to her foray into suspense. Prime Target is surprisingly well written. Roman is caught between two worlds. The one full of violence he wants to leave behind and the chance at a future with his ray of light Everly. When his worlds collide he is forced to make a choice that could prove costly for both him and Everly. I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review. This author continues to surprise me with every story.

The King brothers are three of the wealthiest, most hard-riding heartbreakers in the great state of Texas. And it takes a rare breed of woman to lasso one of their hearts...

NEVER SAY NEVER

As a veterinarian and single mother, Hope Walker knows how to handle most emergencies, inside and out. But when she shows up at the sprawling cattle ranch belonging to Chase King. Hope finds herself in a state of panic: How could Chase be even hotter after all these years? And why does Hope feel more attracted to him than ever?

WHEN IT COMES TO LOVE

Chase can't believe that Hope - the gorgeous, brilliant woman who disappeared after one blazing night of passion - has walked back into his life. After all this time he still thinks of her as the one who got away . . . and he's not about to lose her now. But is Hope ready to get back in the saddle and ride into the sunset with the cowboy of her dreams? Or will a long-buried secret rise to the surface - and tear the two reunited lovers apart?

The one that got away has reappeared. Chase and Hope are kindred spirits. Old school friends with a history that is both memorable and heartbreaking. One night and a long with held secret are all that stands in the way of this reunited pair. When old feelings resurface, will these two long lost friends be able to become life long soul mates? Or will hurt pride permanent break their bond? Hope's motives for her past actions were a little circumspect to me. I get that she was young, scared and uncertain but a guy that is that crazy in love deserved the truth. For two people so close they didn't seem to know each other very well. I received an ARC of Cowboy Take Me Away by Soraya Lane in exchange for an honest review. Growth and more life experience played a hand in reuniting these two. What I am liking most about Ms. Lane's Texas Kings series is that the story is not overshadowed by overly sexy dialogue and too hot to read scenarios. They are a perfect blend of charm, emotion and attraction. Am enjoying.

Hotel owner Dane Harrison, middle brother of a wealthy Long Island family, needs a lounge singer for his new luxury property. With her stunning voice and amazing curves, Julia Shay is perfect. She also seems be the only woman in New York City who isn’t falling at Dane’s feet. And despite her feisty attitude and his rule against workplace affairs, he wants her—in his arms, in his bed, anywhere and everywhere.

Julia loves her new job, and she knows better than to think she can keep it and Dane. Even if he wasn’t her boss, Julia’s painful history has given her ample reason to steer clear of rich, powerful charmers. Still, their chemistry is unlike anything she’s known, and when it becomes too much to resist, they agree to one no-strings night together. But instead of quenching the fire, the intense encounter only proves how much they have to lose—or win…

Jennifer Gracen is an author to watch. The versatility of her stories blended with her writing style and heartwarming characters it is easy to fall in love. An ARC of More Than You Know was given to me in exchange for an honest review. Dane and Julia come from different backgrounds. Dane's focused determination has made him a successful business man. His wealth and business acumen far exceed anything he ever expected, but is everything he hoped for. Julia has seen and experienced a life that has not been an easy one and has learned some heartbreaking lessons along the way. I like the premise of the story and this author has the great ability to dig into the emotions not easily faced. More Than You Know is a story that is as sweet as it is complicated.

Experience the drama of the Little Season in the first of a new series by USA Today bestselling author Kasey Michaels, in which three dashing war heroes have finally met their matches…

Gabriel Sinclair has returned from battle as reluctant heir to a dukedom. As if his new responsibilities weren't enough, Gabriel's aunt enlists him to sponsor a young heiress through London's Little Season. Yet Miss Thea Neville is hardly the tedious obligation he expected. She's exotic and enchanting—and utterly unaware of the secret poised to destroy her family's reputation.

After ten years in America, Thea is ready to do her duty and marry well. Deportment lessons, modistes, balls—the ton is a minefield she could scarcely navigate without Gabriel's help. By rights, she should accept the first bachelor who offers for her. Instead, she's succumbing to a dangerous attraction to her wickedly handsome chaperone—one that could unhinge her plans in the most delicious way.

Kasey Michaels is not afraid to rattle the cage in regards to her stories. She is an author that whether it be contemporary or historical is not afraid to throw in a few surprises along the way. I liked that. Kept the story interesting and she proceeded to do it without ever losing the precision of the flow within the story. An Improper Arrangement was given to me in exchange for an honest review. With the curve ball presented at the outset of this novel Ms. Michaels brought the shock value. The unorthodox characters proved to be a treasure trove of emotions that will brighten any heart. The mishaps bring out the comedic charm of this entertaining read.

SOME KIND OF WONDERFUL BY SARAH MORGAN & THE LADIES' MAN BY SUSAN MALLERY

Release Date: December 29, 2015

SYNOPSIS

USA Today bestselling author Sarah Morgan will sweep you away with her Puffin Island series! In a town where anything can happen, sometimes love can be found in the most unlikely place of all…

Her whole life, Puffin Islander Brittany Forrest has dreamed of adventure. And at the age of eighteen, she thought she'd found it in bad boy Zachary Flynn. But after just ten tempestuous, smoldering days, their whirlwind marriage went up in smoke, and Brittany resolved to put him out of her mind forever.

Zach knows he let Brittany down, but being back on Puffin Island and seeing Brittany again stirs up long-buried emotions. This daredevil pilot has never felt worthy of her, yet he can't stay away—even when he knows the chemistry between them will only complicate his life.

As long, hot summer days on the beach dissolve into sultry, starry nights, Brittany and Zach find that the sparks between them are more powerful than ever. Could it be that the second time around, their dreams of a happy-ever-after will finally come true?

Harlequin has released just the right combination to turn any frown into a smile. This double feature has irresistible charm that is book ended by two of romances most prolific voices today. I received an ARC of this duet in exchange for an honest review. Sarah Morgan contributes an emotional story of second chances, maturity and redemption in Some Kind of Wonderful. While Susan Mallery brings lighthearted fun between a charismatic playboy and an insecure heroine in The Ladies' Man. Like the characters in the story each novel has hidden surprises that are enchanting treats and I enjoyed every minute. Can't go wrong with this delightful read.

…you should be pretty darn sure the answer will be yes. For ten years, Connor O'Rourke has been waiting for Jessica Dunn to take their on-again, off-again relationship public, and he thinks the time has come. His restaurant is thriving, she's got her dream job at Blue Heron Vineyard—it's the perfect time to get married.

When he pops the question, however, her answer is a fond but firm no. If it ain't broke, why fix it? Jess has her hands full with her younger brother, who's now living with her full-time, and a great career after years of waitressing. What she and Connor have is perfect: friends with an excellent benefits package. Besides, with her difficult past (and reputation), she's positive married life isn't for her.

But this time, Connor says it's all or nothing. If she doesn't want to marry him, he'll find someone who does. Easier said than done, given that he's never loved anyone but her. And maybe Jessica isn't quite as sure as she thinks…

Kristin Higgins is an author that I have come across in passing but not read much of her work. With Anything for You she threw in a twist. It's the guy who wants all or nothing and the floundering is from the female. I loved her in depth look at Connor and Jess. This story had all the right hot spots for me. Wonderful writing, great characters and that is just naming a few. Am glad I took a chance. Was not disappointed. Thanks NetGalley and Harlequin.

The instant Captain Declan Frobisher laid eyes on Lady Edwina Delbraith, he knew she was the lady he wanted as his wife. The scion of a seafaring dynasty accustomed to success, he discovered that wooing Edwina was surprisingly straightforward—not least because she made it plain that she wanted him as much as he wanted her.

Declan’s vision of marriage was of a gently-reared wife to grace his arm, to manage his household, and to bear his children. He assumed that household, children, and wife would remain safely in England while he continued his life as an explorer sailing the high seas.

Declan got his wish—up to a point. He and Edwina were wed. As for the rest—his vision of marriage…

Aunt of the young Duke of Ridgware and sister of the mysterious man known as Neville Roscoe, London’s gambling king, even before the knot was tied Edwina shattered the illusion that her character is as delicate, ethereal, and fragile as her appearance suggests. Far from adhering to orthodox mores, she and her ducal family are even more unconventional than the Frobishers.

Beneath her fairy-princess exterior, Edwina possesses a spine of steel—one that might bend, but will never break. Born to the purple—born to rule—she’s determined to rule her life. With Declan’s ring on her finger, that means forging a marriage that meets her needs as well as his.

But bare weeks into their honeymoon, Declan is required to sail to West Africa. Edwina decides she must accompany him.

A secret mission with unknown villains flings unexpected dangers into their path as Declan and Edwina discover that meeting the challenge of making an unconventional marriage work requires something they both possess—bold and adventurous hearts.

Stephanie Laurens is the best of both worlds. Her bold tenacity to give the readers what they want is shown in her characters and the stories she writes. The Lady's Command blends action, romance and suspense in order to create a story that appeals to more than the standard romance reader. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review and found myself amused by the spunky no holes barred Edwina and spellbound by the fearless Declan. The road to happily every after proved to be a bumpy one for these lovers but was a delightful eye opener for me.

HER SHAMEFUL PAST MAKES HER AN OUTCAST—UNTIL A LONE WOLF TAKES HER INTO HIS HOME.

Scorned, pregnant, and facing a life without promise, Pippa Grayhawk is stunned when her father announces that they’re leaving their home in Australia to take over his estranged father’s sprawling Wyoming ranch. Drawn into bitter family rivalries and feeling like an interloper in her new home, Pippa rides out into the wilderness and meets an intriguing stranger and his pet wolf. The wolf doesn’t scare her, but she’s very much afraid to trust another man with her heart.

Devon Flynn knows all about going it alone. He lives in an isolated cabin, away from his domineering father and the scandal surrounding his family. Devon’s attraction to Pippa is intoxicating and undeniable, but when he tries to get close, she’s as wary as his once-wild wolf. Devon is willing to defy his father, and hers, to claim Pippa as his own, but winning this wounded, wonderful woman’s love might be the greatest battle of all.

Loving and being loved is never easy. Especially when those that claim to be looking out for your best interest take every chance to tear you down. I received an ARC of Shameless in exchange for an honest review. This is a story that has it all. Pippa naively fell for a man that did not share her feelings. Now pregnant, ashamed and scorned she is faced with another change when her father up roots the family and heads to America. This was a drastic decision but his heart was in the right place, he wanted to protect his child. It was a self sacrificing decision that he made knowing his own family issues. This is an emotionally frustrating story that is as heartbreaking as it is inspiring. There is so much I can praise about Joan Johnston's story of love and courage, but to me experiencing it is better than hearing about it.

Bestselling author Sabrina York carries readers back to the wild Scottish Highlands, where the bravest of men surrender to no one—except the boldest of women...

A SCANDALOUS TEMPTATION

Andrew Lochlannach is famous for his conquests, on and off the battlefield. When a fellow warrior challenges him to a kissing contest, he wastes no time in planting his lips on ninety-nine lovely lasses—an impressive feat of seduction that gets him banished to the farmlands. Still, Andrew has no regrets about his exploits—especially his embrace with the most beguiling woman he's ever met...

AN UNDENIABLE PASSION

With flaming red hair and a temper to match, Susana is not the kind of innocent farmgirl who gives herself over easily to a man, even one as ruggedly handsome as Andrew. The wicked Scot may have won a kiss from the headstrong beauty in a moment of mutual desire, but Susana refuses to be just another one of his conquests. Andrew must convince the fiery lass that even though he is not playing a game, losing her is not an option...

So nice to finally see a big strong man who was not afraid to show a sensitive side. Arrogant, stubborn and conceited all applied to Andrew but I like to think of him as a romantic at heart. Why else would he keep subjecting himself to Susana's fiery temper? Ms. York created a great character in Susana. Just as brash as Andrew but more opinionated. A scandalously hot tug of war that is every bit as winning a love story as it is an adventure. I received an ARC of Susana and the Scot in exchange for an honest review.

This rich Texas rancher has his hands full with an abandoned baby…and her irresistible nanny!

Mistaken for the father of his twin brother's child, Liam Wade takes in his fussy infant niece and needs a nanny fast. Hadley Stratton knows all about Liam's reputation with the ladies, and really doesn't believe that the baby isn't his! But as she settles into her role, she begins to see the man beneath the Stetson. And when they're stranded together during a storm, she really gets to know him. Is she just the latest woman to fall for Liam's charms, or are this rich rancher's single days numbered?

Nanny Makes Three is a story that is sweet on the surface with an underlying current of sex appeal. I have been following the Texas Cattleman's Club series since the very beginning. It was intriguing to me how one group of authors could create a cohesive series that centered around a specific location and central characters that pop up within each others novels. I tried them out and have been hooked ever since.

Nanny Makes Three by Cat Schield is the latest is this long running continuity. I loved how one innocent child proved to be the catalyst in these two characters lives. One baby helps to heal two hearts. Cat Schield outdid herself. I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

In his quest for revenge against a disreputable card sharp, James, Earl of Cambourne, discovers the man's innocent daughter. While her surroundings are impoverished, her dignity and refinement are unmistakable, and James faces an unsettling question—what will be her fate if he brings her father to justice?

Although yearning for love and comfort, Lucy resists the earl's surprising offer of protection. That is until a price is made on her virginity, and James is the only man who can save her.

Harlequin Historical is not my genre of choice. Has not been in many years. The reason I stopped reading this particularly series is that there was no growth or interest for me. After reading In Debt to the Earl by Elizabeth Rolls, I just might take another look. James has an agenda. To make his enemy pay by any means necessary. Lucy has a goal to survive the life she was born into with her head held high and her heart intact despite her father's abuse. Lucy sold this story for me. Her ordeal broke my heart but it also was wonderful to see a woman become stronger in mind, body and spirit. That is the type of heroine that is motivating to anyone that is facing adversity. I received an ARC of In Debt to the Earl in exchange for an honest review. The redemption and healing they needed was where they least expected to find it.

A coveted teaching invitation gives Donovan Boudreaux the chance to leave his New Orleans comfort zone and meet his secret email pen pal—world-renowned author Gianna Martelli. But when he arrives at the Martelli wine chateau in Tuscany, he discovers he's been deceived. His misgivings dwindle as Gianna introduces him to the hidden pleasures of Italy—and a passion that takes both Donovan and the reclusive writer by surprise.

Gianna loves her simple life on her family's legendary vineyards. Until her matchmaking twin initiates a clandestine correspondence. Determined to make amends, Gianna soon realizes that she and the charming professor share a bond that can't be found in books. A friendship soon flames into an intense affair they know can't last forever. And now a vindictive rival could destroy Donovan's reputation, career and any hope of a future with Gianna…

Through the misunderstandings, conspiracies and matchmaking Donovan had the smarts to follow his heart. Tuscan Heat was presented to me by NetGalley and Harlequin in exchange for an honest review. Donovan and Gianna really aren't that different from each other. Both are successful in the career of their choice, have strong family ties and have the intellect to accomplish anything. I thought the brains proved to be a hindrance. Too much thinking and not enough doing caused them to miss out on experiences that they needed. Ms. Mello created a story with a homey feel that is as mellow as it is sensual.